Media reports on some private news channels regarding a sudden spike of HIV cases in Islamabad have been firmly rejected by authorities, who described them as baseless and factually incorrect.
According to an official clarification, the figure of 618 HIV cases being circulated does not represent a sudden outbreak. Instead, it is the cumulative number of cases reported over the past 15 months, not a short-term spike as being portrayed in some reports.
Officials emphasized that the monthly registration rate of HIV cases in Islamabad remains stable and consistent with previous trends. There is no evidence of any unusual increase or outbreak in the city, and the overall situation is under control.
Health authorities further clarified that the apparent rise in reported cases is mainly due to improved screening, advanced testing facilities, and increased public awareness campaigns. As more people are being tested, previously undetected cases are now being identified, which should not be interpreted as a sudden spread of the disease.
The government has urged the public to avoid being panicked and believing unverified information circulating on social media and to rely only on official sources for accurate updates.
Media organizations have also been urged to report sensitive health matters responsibly to prevent unnecessary panic.
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